My Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal - by Jessica

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

At first, I chose Lisbon as it was the cheapest destination I was offered. Now, I would choose Lisbon without even thinking about it, for variety of reasons: for the climate (very similar to in Valencia, though perhaps it rains a little more), the parties (spectacular, there are parties on every day in the 'barrio alto'), the culture, the public transport (which is extraordinarily cheap for students under 23, with monthly cards only costing 15 euros which give you unlimited travel on buses, metros and trams), the architecture and the countryside (it's the most beautiful city I've ever been to, with fantastic views from the 'miradouros').

How long did your exchange last? How much were you paid?

Ten months. I received 3, 500 euros in total.

What's the student life like in Lisbon?

It's very different to what it's like at home. In terms of dinners and parties, there isn't much difference between Valencia and Lisbon. One strange thing is that the first years play pranks on the second years (they go around in Harry Potter costumes). There are loads of parties.

In terms of the atmosphere in the classroom, the Portuguese are very good students and they love participating in class (they never stop asking questions). There are all kinds of people, but most are very well-educated and are quick to help the newcomers.

Would you recommend the city and University of Lisbon to other students?

Yes. The city is wonderful. You have to be a bit careful with some people (there are a lot of drug-addicts for example), and some areas of the city aren't very safe (Mantín Moniz, Intendente, Moraria... ). There are several universities and university areas, but I've never heard anything bad about any of them. Eating out there is very cheap: the menu in the university canteen costs 2. 5 euros. You'll need a card to get in there, which they'll give you at university.

What's Portuguese food like?

Portuguese food is very tasty. The most traditional dish is 'bacalhao', grilled with cream...

The sweets are also delicious. Everything else is the same as it is in Spain: almost all products are imported from Spain to Portugal.

Did you find it hard to find somewhere to live in Lisbon?

We spent around a week looking for somewhere, but this was because we began searching in September. The prices vary depending on the neighbourhood. The rent is quite expensive in comparison with other things. Basic rent is around 200-250 euros a month, with bills included. It's important to choose a good neighbourhood, and that your flat has windows (lots don't! ). Flats tend to be old.

How expensive is living in Lisbon?

With rent, bills, food, transport and parties... you'll spend around 400 euros a month. In September, you'll have to pay your deposit. Travelling isn't expensive. Renting a car can cost as little as six euros a day. The train to Porto or Faro costs twenty euros for a round trip.

How are you finding the language? Have you signed up to a language class at the university?

Personally, I went to Lisbon knowing absolutely no Portuguese at all. The classes are all held in this language, but the professors and almost everyone living in Lisbon can speak English, too. In any case, you learn Portuguese words very quickly there. It's difficult to understand at first, but after a month, you can understand what they're on about, and after two months, you can talk yourself. At the universities, there are two Portuguese language courses available: an A2 one during the first semester, and a B1 one during the second. I think they each cost 50 euros to attend.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Lisbon from your home city?

By plane. I'd fly from Valencia with Easyjet for 40 euros direct to Lisbon.

What are the best places for partying in Lisbon?

Barrio Alto (there are people here every day of the week, it's a place full of bars and pubs, and caters to all tastes. It closes at four in the morning. It's in the city centre. The metro and buses will take you home at any time from Cais de Sodré, Alcantara (smaller and further out from the city), and Oriente. For clubs, there's Uban Beach and Bar do Rio, where they often host Erasmus parties.

What about eating out in Lisbon? What are your favourite places?

Any bar is good and cheap, apart from those in the more touristy areas like Barrio Ato or Alfama (but this does depend on the bar).

What does Lisbon have to offer in terms of culture?

There is loads to see, like the Alfama district, the miradouros, the castle, the Monsanto Forest... there are also lots of free concerts in the street, picnics, etc.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Lisbon?

Go surfing and travel as much as possible. Enjoy everything that Lisbon has to offer,